Dreaming Minds, Scientific Eyes – ICMDR Quarterly Newsletter
- ICMDR team
- Jun 21
- 14 min read
Dear Colleagues and Friends of the ICMDR,
As the field of maladaptive daydreaming (MD) research continues to evolve, we find ourselves standing at the threshold of a profound transformation in how we understand the human mind's capacity for imagination - and its potential cost. This issue of the International Consortium for Maladaptive Daydreaming Research (ICMDR) Newsletter offers a panoramic view of this unfolding journey: from cutting-edge empirical findings to newly emerging clinical insights, from the voices of early-career scholars to the pulse of global media recognition.
What was once an obscure, nameless struggle experienced in isolation is now a recognized area of scholarly and clinical inquiry. This issue reflects that growing momentum, with contributions spanning continents, disciplines and methodologies. We hear from researchers probing the links between MD and loneliness, narcissism, trauma, procrastination, attachment and even suicide risk. We see how MD intersects with neurodevelopmental conditions, how it is shaped by culture, and how it is being studied across languages and life stages. This global chorus affirms that MD is not a niche anomaly but a meaningful psychological phenomenon worthy of systematic investigation and thoughtful care.
This newsletter also highlights the widening cultural recognition of MD - from clinical journals to mainstream journalism - marking an important shift from marginalization to legitimacy. Every thesis defended, every scale validated, every conference poster presented is another step toward understanding, naming and ultimately supporting those whose inner lives, though vividly rich, too often remain hidden.
Whether you are a clinician, a researcher, a person with lived experience, or simply a curious mind, we hope this issue inspires you. There is still much to explore. But with growing collaboration, scientific rigour and empathy, we are slowly bringing the invisible into view.
Warmly, The ICMDR Editorial Team
Published research papers
The past months have seen a remarkable expansion in the scientific literature on maladaptive daydreaming (MD), reflecting growing international interest in its psychological, developmental and clinical dimensions. These contributions - originating from diverse cultural contexts and methodological traditions - advance our understanding of MD not merely as a symptom but as a multifaceted psychological phenomenon in its own right. From scale validations to theoretical models, these papers mark critical steps toward refining our conceptualization of MD and enhancing support for those who live with it.
Dao, P.Q., & Alexandrovna, P.A. (2025). Loneliness as a motivating factor for maladaptive daydreaming among Vietnamese adolescents: the role of online novel reading. Psychology, Health & Medicine. DOI: 10.1080/13548506.2025.2486506
Layperson’s Abstract
In today’s digital world, many people turn to online content for entertainment and comfort. This study looked at how spending too much time reading online novels might affect people who feel lonely, and how this sometimes leads to excessive daydreaming that interferes with real life. The researchers surveyed 388 people who regularly read online novels. They found that when people feel lonely, they may use online stories as a way to escape. While this can provide temporary comfort, it may also fuel vivid, often uncontrollable daydreams that pull them further away from reality. The researchers suggest that loneliness plays a key role in this process. Excessive reading of online novels can act like a digital addiction. Sufferers find themselves constantly thinking about the next story, feeling anxious without it, needing more and more to feel satisfied, and continuing to read even when it causes problems in daily life. Helping people who get caught in this cycle involves addressing the root cause – loneliness - and encouraging healthier coping styles. Building stronger social connections and balancing online reading with other meaningful activities may help prevent daydreaming from taking over.
Renzi, A., & Mariani, R. (2025). What is the relationship between narcissism and maladaptive daydreaming? The role of defense mechanisms as mediators. Psychiatric Research & Clinical Practice. DOI: 10.1176/appi.prcp.20250018
Layperson’s Abstract
In this study, involving over 500 participants, researchers explored how maladaptive daydreaming (MD) might be linked to narcissistic traits – such as being overly self-focused or craving admiration - and the defense mechanisms that people use to protect themselves emotionally. The results revealed that people who scored higher in MD tended to show more narcissistic traits. They were also more likely to rely on less-effective coping strategies, such as denial or fantasy, instead of more-effective ones like humour or self-reflection. Interestingly, younger participants were more prone to intense daydreaming. The researchers also found that the way someone defends themselves emotionally plays a key role in how much they get caught up in their inner world. This implies that therapists could help people struggling with MD by focusing on building more adaptive coping strategies. This could be especially helpful for young adults dealing with insecurity, emotional pain or unmet needs for validation - feelings that often fuel an escape into fantasy.
Zaheer, U.A., Mastrokoukou, S., Longobardi, C., & Bozzato, P. (2025). Parent attachment and video gaming addiction: the serial mediation role of social support and maladaptive daydreaming. European Journal of Investigation in Health, Psychology and Education, 15(4), 60. DOI: 10.3390/ejihpe15040060
Layperson’s Abstract
Many young people spend a lot of time gaming, and, for some, it can become a serious problem. This study looked at nearly 900 Italian teenagers to understand how their relationships with their parents might influence their gaming habits. The researchers found that teenagers who felt less emotionally connected with and supported by their parents were more likely to develop signs of gaming addiction. Two factors helped explain this connection: how much support teenagers felt they had from others, and how often they got lost in intense daydreaming. When teenagers didn’t feel supported and used vivid daydreaming as a way to escape real life, they were more likely to have an unhealthy reliance on video games. This study suggests that helping teenagers feel more secure, supported and connected to others may reduce the risk of gaming addiction. This could be achieved through therapy, support programs that build stronger family bonds and teaching healthier ways to manage emotions.
Rashi, & Raj, R. (2025). Dreaming to cope: exploring the relationship between attachment styles and maladaptive daydreaming. International Journal of Interdisciplinary Approaches in Psychology, 3(5), 1160-1169.
Layperson’s Abstract
This study explored how different attachment styles relate to maladaptive daydreaming (MD) in Indian adults aged between 18 and 25. The researchers asked 158 participants to complete two psychological scales. The results showed that people who felt anxious in relationships were more likely to experience MD, while those who felt emotionally close to others were less likely to do so. Attachment style - especially high anxiety and low closeness - can predict a person’s tendency to experience MD. These findings suggest that therapies focused on improving attachment could help reduce MD in young adults.
Ajaykrishna, S., & Rangaswami, R. (2025). Examining the mediating and moderating roles of maladaptive daydreaming on adverse childhood experiences and post-traumatic growth. International Journal of Interdisciplinary Approaches in Psychology, 3(3), 320-349.
Layperson’s Abstract
This study explored how maladaptive daydreaming (MD) affects the connection between difficult childhood experiences and positive psychological growth after trauma, known as post-traumatic growth. The researchers looked at how childhood trauma - such as abuse or neglect - might lead to the development of MD as a coping strategy. One hundred participants aged 18–35 completed questionnaires about their childhood experiences, daydreaming habits and signs of personal growth after trauma. The results showed that MD can influence how childhood trauma impacts personal growth - especially in areas such as spiritual development and a greater appreciation for life. Family background also plays a role in these patterns. The findings suggest that MD can both help and hinder recovery from early adversity. Mental-health professionals should consider these nuances when working with individuals who experienced childhood trauma.
Breuer, P., Merckelbach, H., Somer, E., & Broers, N. (2025). Maladaptive daydreaming: the German and the Dutch versions of the 16-item Maladaptive Daydreaming Scale. Psychology of Consciousness: Theory, Research, and Practice. DOI: 10.1037/cns0000432
Layperson’s Abstract
The 16-item Maladaptive Daydreaming Scale is used worldwide to measure excessive and compulsive daydreaming. This study tested the German and Dutch versions of the scale in an online sample of 201 participants, including both monolingual and bilingual individuals. The results showed that the two versions worked equally well, with good reliability and a confirmed four-part structure. The study also looked at how maladaptive daydreaming (MD) relates to fantasy proneness (a strong tendency to get lost in imagination) and counterfactual thinking (imagining alternative versions of reality). As expected, people who were more prone to fantasy reported more MD. However, there was no strong link between MD and the ability to think in "what if" scenarios. The study notes some limitations in how counterfactual thinking was measured, and suggests directions for future research.
Karaağaç, M., & Korkmaz, Ş.A. (2025). The relationship between maladaptive daydreaming and academic procrastination, depression, anxiety and stress levels in medical students. Anatolian Current Medical Journal, 7(3), 320-325. DOI: 10.38053/acmj.1659391
Layperson’s Abstract
Maladaptive daydreaming (MD) is often linked to emotional difficulties and behavioural challenges. This study explored the relationships between MD, academic procrastination and psychological distress among medical students. Participants completed standardized questionnaires assessing their levels of daydreaming, depression, anxiety, stress and procrastination. The results showed that students who experienced more severe MD also tended to procrastinate more and reported higher levels of depression, anxiety and stress. However, there was no significant link between MD and academic performance. These findings suggest that while MD does not directly lower grades, it is closely tied to emotional distress and ineffective study habits. Further research is needed to understand the mechanisms behind these connections and to develop targeted support strategies for students struggling with MD-related difficulties.
Calaresi, D., Saladino, V., Giordano, F., & Verrastro, V. (2025). The impact of neuroticism and daydreaming in the link between attachment and suicide risk in emerging adults. European Journal of Investigation in Health, Psychology and Education. 15(4), 52. DOI: 10.3390/ejihpe15040052
Layperson’s Abstract
This study investigated how insecure attachment styles may contribute to suicide risk, and whether this relationship is influenced by levels of neuroticism and maladaptive daydreaming (MD). Insecure attachment can lead to emotional distress, which often triggers unhealthy coping strategies, such as excessive fantasy and withdrawal - factors that are associated with increased suicide risk. A total of 1152 participants between the ages of 18 and 25 completed questionnaires measuring their attachment style, personality traits, daydreaming tendencies and suicide risk. Secure attachment was not related to MD, but it was linked to lower suicide risk through reduced neuroticism. Dismissing attachment showed no significant connections with any of the studied variables. In contrast, preoccupied attachment was fully linked to suicide risk through both neuroticism and MD. Fearful attachment showed a similar pattern, but with only partial mediation. These results highlight the complex psychological pathways connecting attachment, personality and coping styles to suicide risk. Targeting both neuroticism and MD may be especially effective in reducing suicide risk among individuals with certain insecure attachment styles. Personalized interventions that account for these individual differences may offer more effective support for those at risk.
Soffer-Dudek, N. (2025). Corrigendum for “Maladaptive daydreaming: proposed diagnostic criteria and their assessment with a structured clinical interview” concerning the cutoff of the Maladaptive Daydreaming Scale (MDS-16). Psychology of Consciousness: Theory, Research, and Practice. DOI: 10.1037/cns0000433
Layperson’s Abstract
In their 2017 article on maladaptive daydreaming (MD), the authors mistakenly suggested a cutoff score of 50 on the 16-item Maladaptive Daydreaming Scale. This error happened because the survey platform automatically changed the scale format, and the authors didn’t catch it. The correct cutoff should be 40. This lower score still avoids false positives and better identifies those with MD. Future studies should use the corrected cutoff of 40 when identifying individuals with MD.
Conference presentation
Layperson’s Abstract
This study examined the relationship between maladaptive daydreaming (MD) and memory distrust, exploring whether individuals who experience MD have reduced confidence in their memory. A total of 670 adults completed an online survey assessing MD, memory trust, absorption, mind-wandering and visual imagery. Participants with high MD reported significantly more memory distrust than those with low MD. They also scored higher on cognitive traits such as absorption, vivid visual imagery and mind-wandering, and they reported more fantastical (but not realistic) content in their daydreams. Although MD alone initially predicted memory distrust, this effect disappeared when mind-wandering, absorption and imagery vividness were accounted for, suggesting that these cognitive features are stronger predictors of memory distrust than MD itself. A mediation analysis further revealed that fantastical content partially explains the link between absorption and MD. While MD is linked to memory distrust, it may be more an outcome of immersive cognitive styles than a direct cause.
Academic reports
Ferreira, T. (2025). Devaneio Excessivo e Imersivo Uma Introdução. Pós-Graduação Em Terapia Cognitivo-Comportamental (in Brazilian Portuguese).
Layperson’s Abstract
At the beginning of the 21st Century, the phenomena of immersive daydreaming (ID) and excessive daydreaming (ED) were defined for the first time in the scientific literature. Since then, international clinical and research interest in these constructs has grown steadily. However, their coverage in Brazilian literature remains limited. This article provides an introductory and comprehensive overview of ID and ED in Portuguese, with the aim of informing Brazilian psychologists and psychiatrists.
Theses
Layperson’s Abstract
This study looks at how people with maladaptive daydreaming (MD) use their daydreams to cope with life and the roles these fantasies play for them. Three individuals with MD were interviewed and their responses analysed. Four main themes emerged: how participants describe their daydreams, what purposes the daydreams serve, how they experience them in daily life, and how the daydreams fit into their overall psychological stories. Participants shared that their daydreams began in childhood and are a regular part of their lives. They use them in many ways: to feel energized or relaxed, to imagine positive futures, to boost motivation, and to escape from stress. This last function reflects avoidant coping - using fantasy to manage difficult emotions. While the daydreams can be helpful, participants also described them as disruptive. The study suggests that MD includes both helpful and harmful aspects. Unlike earlier research that focused only on the negative effects of MD, this study found that daydreaming can also serve valuable functions. These findings offer a more balanced view of MD, and challenge the idea that it is purely a disorder.
Nauman, J. (2025). Maladaptive daydreaming in neurodevelopmental conditions. A thesis presented to The Ohio State University in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree Master of Science.
Layperson’s Abstract
Maladaptive daydreaming (MD) is a proposed dissociative condition that may share traits with both ADHD and autism spectrum disorder (ASD). However, little is known about how it relates to these diagnoses. In this study, 183 participants were grouped according to whether they had ADHD only, ASD only, both (referred to as AuDHD) or neither. The results showed that MD symptoms were significantly more common in those with both ADHD and ASD, with this group scoring the highest on MD measures. Nearly half the AuDHD group exceeded the cutoff score for MD, compared to lower percentages in the other groups. Further analysis showed that symptoms such as inattention and repetitive behaviours were linked to higher levels of MD. Being highly focused on details was linked to fewer MD symptoms. These findings suggest that MD is meaningfully connected to traits found in both ADHD and ASD. More research is needed to determine whether MD should be considered its own disorder or seen as part of the broader spectrum of neurodevelopmental conditions.
Layperson’s Abstract
This study explored how personality traits and self-esteem are related to maladaptive daydreaming (MD) in young adults. A total of 482 participants from India, aged 18 to 25, completed an online survey measuring their personality (using the HEXACO model), self-esteem, and levels of MD. The results showed that three personality traits - honesty-humility, extraversion and conscientiousness - were significantly linked to MD. In contrast, emotionality, agreeableness and openness showed no meaningful connection. Lower self-esteem was significantly associated with higher levels of MD. These findings suggest that certain personality traits and self-esteem levels may influence a person's tendency to experience MD, offering insights into how individual differences relate to this psychological phenomenon.
Layperson’s Abstract
This study explored the relationship between maladaptive daydreaming (MD) and academic self-concept (ASC) among high-school students in India. MD can interfere with concentration, time management and motivation - factors that directly affect academic performance. ASC refers to students' perception of their own academic abilities and plays a key role in their confidence and success in school. A total of 77 students from grades 8 to 10 in Kerala completed questionnaires to measure MD, ASC, teacher-student relationships, and academic performance. The findings revealed that higher levels of MD were associated with lower academic self-concept. Students who frequently engaged in daydreaming often struggled with procrastination, poor time management and academic stress, which led to lower confidence in their academic abilities. Strong teacher-student relationships could help buffer some of the negative effects of MD on ASC. These results highlight the importance of recognizing and addressing MD in school settings, and suggest that improving support systems, classroom engagement and emotional awareness can enhance both academic performance and student well-being.
Call for participants
Fuensanta Elena is conducting a research project on maladaptive daydreaming for a master's degree. The project is titled "Maladaptive daydreaming: adverse experiences, overexcitability, emotional regulation, and cognitive failures”. The project has been approved by the Research Ethics Committee of the University of Murcia and is anonymous and confidential. It involves answering a few online questionnaires and takes about 15 minutes.
If you would like to participate, you can do so at https://forms.gle/9NkRPS6ReXrL2Fq58
Maladaptive daydreaming in the media
Schuster, R. (2025, April 2). Maladaptive Daydreaming Is a Distinct Psychiatric Disorder, Scientists Argue. Haaretz.
This article highlights the growing call from researchers to officially classify maladaptive daydreaming (MD) as a distinct psychiatric disorder. Written in light of the recent position paper in the British Journal of Psychiatry, this article explains why without formal recognition in manuals such as the DSM or ICD, those suffering from MD will be left misdiagnosed and untreated. In this interview, Professor Nirit Soffer-Dudek explains that MD is often confused with ADHD, yet responds poorly to its treatments. She goes on to clarify misconceptions, distinguish the condition from schizophrenia and from typical daydreaming, and to advocate for targeted interventions. By formally recognizing MD as a dissociative disorder, researchers hope to develop diagnostic criteria and therapies for what is increasingly seen as a debilitating, addiction-like mental-health condition.
Maladaptive daydreaming on the internet
Olhar Digital is a well-established Brazilian media outlet that focuses on technology, innovation, science and digital culture. Founded in 2005, it has grown to become one of Brazil's most prominent, credible and influential sources of tech-related news and analysis. It is often compared to international outlets such as TechCrunch, or CNET, but tailored to the Brazilian and Portuguese-speaking market. Olhar Digital recently published an article on maladaptive daydreaming by Danilo Oliveira titled “O que é o Transtorno do Devaneio Excessivo e como ele impacta a saúde?” (What is excessive daydreaming disorder and how does it impact health?)
The Body Optimist is a French-language digital media platform dedicated to promoting body positivity, inclusivity and self-confidence. Established in 2007, the site has been a prominent voice in advocating against fatphobia and for the body-positive movement. It recently featured a story on maladaptive daydreaming titled “Ces scénarios absurdes que votre cerveau adore la nuit” (These absurd scenarios your brain loves at night).
The same story appeared simultaneously on the Spanish and Dutch language versions of the MSN.com website. MSN.com is a web portal and collection of Internet services provided by Microsoft, launched on August 24, 1995. Over time, MSN has evolved into a comprehensive web portal offering a variety of content and services.
Dreamweaver Narratives
A special abridged version of the first issue of Dreamweaver Narratives is now available on the ISMD website. While the full version of the ISMD’s scientific creative magazine is exclusively for ISMD members, this special edition is now accessible to the broader MD community.
The free version of Dreamweaver Narratives includes a range of articles of interest to immersive and maladaptive daydreamers, including research summaries, essays and mental-health tips, together with creative writing and art submitted by members of the maladaptive daydreaming community.
Afterword
As we close this edition of the ICMDR Newsletter, it is striking to reflect on how far the field of maladaptive daydreaming (MD) has come - and how far we still have to go. The studies, theses, media reports and clinical insights gathered here are more than just isolated findings. Together, they form a growing body of knowledge that challenges old assumptions, opens new avenues of inquiry and amplifies voices that were once unheard.
What emerges is a portrait of a phenomenon that is as complex as it is under-recognized. MD is no longer seen simply as a curious psychological oddity - it is now increasingly understood as a distinct, transdiagnostic experience with deep roots in emotional coping, neurocognitive profiles, cultural context and developmental history. With each contribution, we move closer to a future where MD is not only acknowledged, but understood and addressed with the nuance it deserves.
Yet, this growing recognition brings new responsibilities. We must ensure that the emerging science translates into real-world support. We must foster international collaboration that is inclusive of under-represented voices and regions. And above all, we must remain attuned to the lived experiences of those for whom daydreaming is not just a pastime but a private struggle.
Thank you for being part of this global conversation. Your curiosity, compassion and commitment are helping to transform what was once invisible into something seen - and eventually, something healed.
Until next time, The ICMDR Editorial Team
